PARTY PEEOOPPLLLLEEEE!!! We did it! We made it to Friday! High fives all around. This week has been long and I am more than ready for the weekend. What are your fun plans this weekend? On Saturday I am taking my CPR/First Aid certification so then I can take my Certified Personal Trainer exam later this Spring. It’s 6 hours of CPR…..6….whole…hours. If it turns out anything like this though, I’ll be ecstatic!

Ok now onto what I’m feelin’ this Friday.

#1- Running in shorts and t-shirt in February

70 degrees in February in Maryland?! Sounds like a mythical thing since a lot of us had to endure the polar vortex earlier this year. The weather these past 2 weeks have been glorious! All the popular running trails have been packed because I don’t think most of Maryland has been outside since December LOL. It has been SO nice to run in t-shirt and shorts. It means less laundry and approximately only 3.5 minutes to get dressed for my run in the morning.

#2- Friendly Garbage Men

These guys make my morning. Whenever I pass by them they yell, “Good morning young lady!” or my personal fav, “Hey little mama!” And they cheer me on as I run. It’s refreshing to start the day being kind to others. Try it!

#3- HoMedics Sleep Sound Machine

Photo credit: Amazon

This sleep sound machine (<–referral link) is my precious!! I first discovered this sleep sound machine during vacation last summer. My boyfriend’s mom offered it up to us and I thought “why not?” and I got the BEST and deepest sleep with that thing I have ever had in my life! I tried to use some free apps but I thought the sounds were kinda weird and off? I mean for around $20, this thing is a steal. It has sounds of the ocean, rain, a brook, thunder, summer night, and white noise. Another plus to this machine is that it helps me get into my sleep routine too!

So tell me, what are you feelin’ lately? Leave a comment by clicking the link under the blog post title.

Hey gang!! Pop the champagne it’s the weekend!! How was your week? This week’s What I’m Feelin’ Friday gives an inside look at just a few items that make my morning runs a bit better.

Grab your champagne flute and lets jump right in!

#1 EOS Smooth Stick

Photo Credit: Amazon

I might get some hate mail for this, but I hated when the round EOS chapsticks first came out. I thought they were dry and didn’t do anything for my lips. So I’ve kind of been a hater, that is, until now. The other day I was ordering online from Ulta and in order to get free shipping, you had to spend $50. Why is it that every.single.time my cart total only comes to $49.98? So then I am searching for any dumb $2 item to get the free shipping. I added the EOS Smooth Stick (<–referral link) to my cart on a whim and I am so glad I did!

It sits in a bowl by my front door and I apply it before every run to help protect my lips against the dry air. Having things you need pre-run in a basket or bowl by your front door helps streamline your routine and gets you out the door quicker. The mornings when all my stuff is scattered around the house never seem to go well.

#2 SABRE RED Pepper Spray for Runners

Photo Credit: Amazon

This pepper spray (<–referral link) gives me the peace of mind I need when running outside. The strap makes it easy to carry and it’s small enough to fit in your pocket. Luckily, I haven’t used it in a real situation. Only have sprayed it every few months to see if it’s still good 😉

I keep this tucked away in a basket with all my other running gear like gloves, hats, lights, etc. so it’s easily accessible.

#3 Runner’s World Warm-up Daily Newsletter

I read the Runner’s World Warm-up daily newsletter every morning before my run. It’s inspiring, insightful, and entertaining! Only takes 3 minutes to read but it’s so worth your time. Reading the RW Warm-up helps get me in a frame of mind and ready to run. It’s also a good reminder of why I love to run. You can sign up for Runner’s World Newletters here.

That’s all for now!

So tell me, what are you feelin’ this week? Leave a comment by clicking the link below the blog post title.

Hi friends! Happy Friday!! Hope everyone had a great week. I don’t know about you, but I am DEFINITELY ready for spring. Just to run outside in shorts and t-shirt would be GLORIOUS! I feel like during the winter months I do laundry every other day because of all the layers required to stay warm during my run.

In the meantime, here are some things I am feelin’ that are making my life a bit better…

#1 Spinach salad with warm bacon-mustard dressing

I am constantly on a search for new salad ideas. I found this recipe on AllRecipes.com and it has been a huge hit! I have been eating it for lunch the past 2 weeks straight! The spinach provides a great dairy-free way to get some vitamin K (calcium) and there’s bacon. What could you possibly NOT like?!

#2 Kilner Juicer Jar

This juicer (<–referral link) was an impulse buy this past week. A coworker gave me the most amazing looking orange from his trip to Florida and all I wanted to do was stick a straw right in that thing and suck down the juice. But instead I got every last drop with the Kilner Juicer! I definitely look forward to using this more frequently for lemon and lime juice.

#3 Sweet Almond Oil

My friend Colleen introduced me to this all natural beauty product (<–referral link) to help with my dry skin. I have tried so many other creams that either didn’t work or would burn the crap out of my hands. This oil doesn’t leave my hands greasy and quickly absorbs into my skin, yay!! I love that it comes with a pump so I could quickly use it and not worry about accidentally putting too much on my hand and wasting it. Yay for winter skin relief!

So tell me, what are you feelin’ this week? Click “Leave a Comment” under the blog post title to comment.

Hey everyone! We made it to Friday!! Did anyone else feel like it was a long week? Between work and all the other life obligations, I am exhausted! Unfortunately, my hip has been hurting me lately so I decided to take a week off from running. I have been taking ibuprofen to help with the inflammation, as well as foam rolling, massage, etc. I’ll keep you all posted on my recovery. But for now, you know what time it is…another What I’m Feelin’ Friday! This week I’m feelin’…

#1- Bombas Socks

Photo Credit: www.bombas.com

I first saw Bombas socks (<–referral link) on Shark Tank and thought, “meh just another pair of socks.” Well I guess Bombas bought a ton of Facebook ads because they were on my feed more than that friend who constantly overshares…you know the one. 😛 Well I happened to need some good pair of moisture-wicking socks for work that were also slightly dressy so I decided to give Bombas a try. I have tried every other pair of work socks with no luck, but Bombas hit the ball out of the park! They are amazingly soft, warm, and moisture-wicking! I normally wear Balegas for running but will probably give these a try!

#2- Magnolia Journal

I LOVE the TV show Fixer Upper. Who doesn’t? Chip and Joanna’s magazine Magnolia Journal (<–referral link) is not only eye candy for those who love home design, but they have some great human interest stories and fun lifestyle tips. I love how this magazine encompasses the feel of a warm home. I love Chip even more now because he is running a marathon!! You can read his story about training for the marathon here.

#3- Mission BBQ

Sometimes, it’s life’s simple pleasures that can make all your worries go away. Things like, Mission BBQ! 🙂 On Monday I was already exhausted by the time I got home and wanted nothing to do with cooking. I wanted something “home-y” and filling so my mind immediately went to Mission BBQ. I normally get their pulled chicken sandwich with french fries and it just rocks my world. If you don’t live near a Mission BBQ, I’m sorry. 😛 But any BBQ will do! 🙂

So tell me, what are you feelin’ this week? Leave a comment by clicking the “Leave A Comment” just below the blog post title.

Hey gang! Sorry I went MIA last week, things just got crazy with work and other life obligations #laundry. But I am BACK! Let’s jump right to it. Here are some of the things that have made my life better this week. This week’s list proves that the saying, “it’s the little things” is so true! 🙂

They aren’t plastic!!! I am a bit creeped out by the toxins in plastic containers. If I am taking the time to cook healthy food, why should I store that healthy food in an unhealthy container?

The rubber grip on the bottom prevents bowls from easily sliding around on the countertop. READ: No spills.

The tight sealing lids make it easy to store the bowl in the fridge.

I had been making western omelets for breakfasts and it’s nice to already have the sauteed bell peppers and onions in the bowl ready to go. I just grab the bowl out of the fridge, spoon the already sauteed bell peppers and onions into the pan and voila! Add ham, eggs, and cheese and you have an instant western omelet.

#2 My Intent Bracelet

I saw these My Intent bracelets on Instagram and loved the idea behind them. Having a powerful motto or slogan is essential not only in running, but in life. How great is it that we can just look at our wrist (or paw :P) and be reminded of something that is valuable to us?

My word for 2018 is purpose. I feel as though my purpose is to help people find their best self through fitness and wellness. It’s a topic I can talk about all day long, even when I am feeling extremely exhausted. So whenever I am feeling discouraged or tired, I just look at my wrist, see the word “purpose”, and it helps get my mind back in the game.

And yes, that is a picture of Tadd’s paw haha. I just wanted to see if he would bother moving it.

#3 By The Book Podcast

I have recommended several podcasts over the course of this blog and “By The Book” is the newest addition to my playlist. The hilarious hosts Kristen and Jolenta have to live by a self help book for 2 weeks and report their findings on the podcast.

They have tested several popular self help books such as, “Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus”, “The Miracle Morning”, and “French Women Don’t Get Fat”. I love that Kristen and Jolenta do the dirty work for me and save me from reading an incredible crappy book or encourage me to read one that’s actually helped.

So tell me, what are you feelin’ this week? Leave a comment by clicking the “Leave A Comment” just below the blog post title.

We did it!! We made it to Friday!! It’s been a long week but luckily I have Monday off to relax and work on blog stuff. This weekend I plan to run 5 or 6 miles, have dinner with my family, get my hair done, and relax a bit. I am so ready!

So let’s jump right into it! Here is what I am feelin’ this week.

#1- Up and Vanished Podcast

Oh.my.God. this podcast is amazing!! It’s very similar to the Serial podcast. In Up and Vanished, the host Payne Lindsey is trying to solve a 12 year old cold case of Tara Grinstead, a beauty queen from Georgia who went missing. I binged on this the entire week on my commute to and from work. The twists and turns in this crazy are so crazy. Almost like something straight out of a movie but it’s real life. Note: I do not recommend you this to this before you go to bed or before running on a trail in the woods.

#2 Rao’s Homemade Marinara Sauce

I may be late to the game on this one, but this marinara sauce is the best pre-made stuff I have ever had. I really wanted to like the Wegman’s sauces but they all taste kind of weird to me. I was so hesitant to buy Rao’s considering it’s around $7 for a jar, but it is 100% worth it. The other week I made this crockpot lasagna with the Rao’s sauce and it rocked my world. Definitely will be making this dish again!

#3 Gone for a Run “Running Knit Hat – BOSTON 26.2”

I saw this knit hat back in December and knew I had to have it! I absolutely love the Boston Marathon as well as the city of Boston and wanted to show some love! Around the top of the hat it has all the towns you run through on the Boston Marathon course (Natick, Hopkinton, Brookline, Boylston Street, etc.) and on the cuff it says “BOS 26.2”. This hat is very warm and extremely well made. And for $20 I thought it was a steal! #BostonStrong baby!

And that’s all! Hope you have a relaxing weekend!! So tell me, what are you feelin’?

Hey gang! I am loving these Fridays right before a holiday. I love this time of year because I get to relax and think of goals for the upcoming year. Crazy to think that this will be the last WIFF for 2017! So here we go!!!

#1 Staying in for New Year’s Eve

My boyfriend and I have been staying in every New Year’s Eve for a few years now….and we love it! We have a tradition of making this ragu bolognese from Mario Batali. It’s critical you watch the video to see exactly how he does it. If you didn’t know any better, you’d think you were burning the sauce. OMG I am drooling just thinking about it! Pair this dish with a good champagne and you have the perfect evening.

#2 Bulldog Yoga in Villanova, PA

Every time I am visiting my boyfriend’s parent’s house, I make sure I go to Bulldog Yoga at least once during my visit. Now let’s set the record straight here. I hate yoga. I get so bored during a typical class and some studios are pretentious. But Bulldog Yoga is different. It’s fast-paced so it feels like you are actually working out and fun because they play upbeat music (Bee Gees, NSYNC, AC/DC, etc.). Last week for the holidays they had a holiday music themed class that took the attention off the actual workout and emphasized the holiday fun! Highly recommend the studio if you are in the area!

#3 Posh Podcast

Speaking of fun music for your workout, you should check out the Posh Podcast immediately (available through iTunes and MixCloud). These mixes are delivered straight to your phone weekly for FREE. I have not had to create any playlists since I started listening to the Posh Podcast because it scratches my itch for upbeat music during my gym sessions. Yay for saving money!!

Hey friends! It’s Christmas week and I couldn’t be more excited! I hope you get all the running stuff you wanted this year under your tree! 😛 He’ll be here soon enough….

So let’s jump to it! Here is what I am feelin’ this week:

#1 Christmas morning run

In my opinion, there is no better day and time to run than Christmas morning. The world is super quiet and most people keep their Christmas lights on and shining bright. I look forward to running on Christmas morning all December long. It’s a great time to reflect on what you are grateful for in your life and just soak it all in.

#2 Daily Greatness Journal

Photo Credit: dailygreatness.co

I think it’s safe to assume that most runners are type A people. There’s nothing like the thrill of setting goals and going through the journey to achieve them! I have used other life planners in the past, but what I like about the Daily Greatness Journal(<–Referral Link) is that it forces you to set an intention for the day and has you reflect on your day later that evening. So to me, it’s building a habit of making the most of my very limited time. I’ve had life planners before that week-based, but I felt like too many weeks slipped by where I wanted to be better but didn’t create the habits that would make me better. Watch out 2018, here I come!

#3 Hempz Lip Balm in Frosted Peppermint and Vanilla Sugar

As much as I love the cold weather, I HATE how dry my lips get. I have so much chapstick stashed around the house that I can use it on a moments notice. Unfortunately my beagle loves chapstick too. So much so that he actually broke into Christmas presents to eat the chapsticks that were in the bags. Yes, I had to go to Ulta to repurchase some hahaha. I love to put this chapstick on before my winter weather run. It makes it feel even more like Christmas!! You can buy it here on Amazon or at Ulta.

So tell me, are you running on Christmas morning? What running-related gift will Santa bring you? Click “Comment” under the blog post title to leave a comment.

Hey hey we made it to Friday!!!! How was everyone’s week? I’ve been busy checking off my Christmas list which is soooo nice! This Friday I am not following a theme. We will just say it’s overall health and wellness 😉 Here we go!

#1 Athleta

I am OBSESSED with Athleta apparel. Every time I am browsing online or in the store I want to buy all the things! It is a bit pricey, but after experiencing the quality, comfort, and cuteness of their clothes, the sticker shock wore off. This stuff lasts forever and fits so nicely. I went to Fabletics yesterday just to try on their stuff out of curiosity. Yeahhhhh let’s just say I won’t be back. Any way, when I went to Athleta yesterday, I was on a mission to find some cardigans/wraps for lounging, running errands, etc. Well I scored and found 2 cardigans (the Luxe Pose Wrap and Pranayama Wrap) that are crazy soft. Use this code for 20% off one regular priced item. I am wearing one now. I can safely say it’s good for blogging activities 😛

#2 Williams Sonoma Hot Chocolate

If you’re still drinking powdered hot chocolate, you’re doing yourself a disservice. Do yourself a huge favor and get the Williams Sonoma Hot Chocolate ASAP! It’s not the holidays without this stuff. It’s rich and velvety and basically what dreams are made of. I plan on having a cup (or two!) by the fire this weekend with a book. I can’t wait 🙂

#3 Native Deodorant

I have been searching for a GOOD natural deodorant for awhile. I have been using your typical Secret deodorant and I always felt a burning sensation and occasionally an odd bump in my armpit. Yikes! I was trying other natural deodorants but they either didn’t work or had to be applied by hand. No thank you! Enter Native Deodorant (<—-referral link) . I found this product through another blog and after reading up on it, purchased it immediately. I love how smooth and soothing it is, as well as the yummy smells. Oh, AND it works!

So tell me, what are you feelin’ this week? Leave a comment by clicking the Comment link just below the blog post title 🙂

Happy First Friday of December! Time to haul out the holly 😉 I get SO excited for the holidays. Hands down my favorite time of year to run. I am working on a running gift guide for you all, but in the mean time here’s another What I’m Feelin’ Friday! Today I am going to do a podcast-themed WIFF. I love podcasts because:

I love to learn. There is such a variety of topics from business to science to health.

Lewis is a self-made entrepreneur who interviews guests that have made a difference in the world. He is all about gratitude, love, and kindness as well as going out there and being great. Think of him as the facilitator/curator of greatness. Among my favorite episodes are:

There are just so many episodes I love that I cannot possibly list them all. Episodes are between an hour to an hour 30 minutes. Here is the master list of all the episodes along with video/audio.

#2 The MFCEO Project Podcast

I first learned about MFCEO, Andy Frisella, on The School of Greatness podcast. Heads up: Dude is intense and uses a lot of curse words, which I don’t mind. So I think you can guess what MF stands for. This podcast isn’t for the faint of heart. Andy doesn’t sugar coat anything because guess what? Life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows!! Andy inspires you to rise to adversity and challenge the status quo. Think of him as your business drill sergeant. He totally gets me pumped up and ready to go out there and kick some ass. Among my favorite episodes are:

Episodes can range from 12 minutes to an hour if there is a guest. You can find a master list of Andy’s podcast here.

#3 How I Built This with Guy Raz

A podcast from NPR, Guy Raz interviews the top CEOs of globally recognized brands (read: Samuel Adams Brewing, Starbucks, Burton Snowboards, Chipotle, Airbnb, etc.) If you think this will be a boring Q&A session, think again. Each CEO takes you on the wild rollercoaster of growing their business from nothing. I have found myself saying out loud, “OMG what?! No way!!”. Amazing. Amazing. AMAZING. Among my favorite episodes are:

Burton Snowboards: Jake Carpenter

Starbuck: Live Episode with Howard Schultz

Samuel Adams: Jim Koch

I literally love every single episode of this show. I always walk away with a nugget of wisdom from each CEO, from deciphering the difference between scary and dangerous to not taking a minute of your life for granted. Episodes last from 30 minutes to an hour. Check out a list of episodes here.

That’s all for now! Tell me, what is your favorite podcast? To leave a comment, click the comment link just below the title of this blog post.